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Mainland Greece: Trekking the Northern Pindos Mountains
Mainland Greece
8 Days
From $4995
Hiking and Culture
Mainland Greece: Trekking the Northern Pindos Mountains
Mainland Greece
8 Days
From $4995
Hiking and Culture
Trip Overview
On this unforgettable journey through Greece, we will hike through some of the country’s most stunning and rugged landscapes, while immersing ourselves in its rich history and culture. From the charming town of Thessaloniki to the dramatic peaks of the Northern Pindos Mountains, this adventure blends outdoor exploration with cultural discovery. Our route will take us through picturesque villages like Vovousa and Samarina, where we’ll experience traditional Greek festivals and interact with locals, learning about their unique culture and history. Along the way, we’ll summit towering mountains like Mount Avgo (7,145 feet) and Mount Smolikas (8,621 feet), offering breathtaking views and a true sense of achievement. After each day of hiking, we'll relax at cozy guesthouses and refuges, enjoying hearty Greek meals and stargazing under the night sky. This is a trip that brings together the best of Greece’s natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. If you’re looking for a trip that perfectly blends hiking in Greece’s rugged mountain terrain with cultural immersion, then look no further – this is the perfect trip for you.
Highlights
- Hike the Vlachostrata in the Northern Pindos Mountains
- Summit Mount Avgo and Mount Smolikas
- Enjoy Greek hospitality in traditional mtn villages
- Experience the Saint Mamas Festival in Samarina
- Stargaze in the remote Pindos range
- Swim in Valia Calda’s natural pools and waterfalls
Inclusions
- English-speaking Greek guide (may be male) and an AGC guide depending on group size
- 7 nights double occupancy: 3-star hotels in Thessaloniki & local mountain guesthouses
- All itinerary activities, including guided city & nature tours, stone bridges, and Buluvaros Waterfalls in Krania
- All breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners (see itinerary)
- All transportation (private buses)
- Departure airport transfer (arranged after travel plans are submitted)
What's not included: Travel to/from Thessaloniki, beverages (except bottled water at meals), guide gratuities, travel insurance.
Trip Info
This trip is rated Level 4, indicating a "Difficult" activity level. Participants can expect 5 to 8 hours of physical activity on most days, with challenging hikes featuring significant elevation changes, uneven terrain, and some steep ascents and descents. One particularly demanding day includes 12 hours of hiking to summit Mount Smolikas, Greece’s second-highest peak. To fully enjoy this adventure, we recommend engaging in aerobic conditioning for at least 40-60 minutes, 4 to 5 times a week, along with additional endurance and strength training. Given the rugged terrain and elevation gains, individuals with knee issues or a fear of heights should consult with our office before registering. Rating: 1 2 3[4]5.
While this is primarily a hiking trip, there are also opportunities for swimming in natural pools and waterfalls, exploring charming villages, experiencing a vibrant Greek festival, and enjoying delicious local cuisine.
We will be staying in a 3-4 star hotel in Thessaloniki, local guesthouses in mountain villages, and cozy mountain refuges along the route. Detailed information will be included in your pre-trip letter.
Trip Resources
Itinerary
Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests.
DAY 1
This afternoon, we’ll meet our local guide and AGC guide in the hotel lobby for a briefing before setting out on a short orientation walk of Thessaloniki. We’ll explore the city's vibrant streets before we gather for a welcome dinner at a traditional Greek taverna in the famous Ladadika district.
Included Meals: Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel in Thessaloniki
Daily Activities: Orientation walk
Included Meals: Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel in Thessaloniki
Daily Activities: Orientation walk
DAY 2
After breakfast, we’ll dive into Thessaloniki’s fascinating history. Our exploration begins at the iconic White Tower, a monument that once served as a prison during Ottoman rule. We’ll then visit the Church of Saint Demetrius, dedicated to the city’s patron saint, and continue to the Rotonda, one of Thessaloniki’s oldest religious sites. From there, we’ll marvel at the Arch of Galerius and the Roman Forum, which dates back to the city's ancient past.
Later, we depart for Krania, where we’ll explore the village’s historic stone bridges and the picturesque Buluvaros Waterfalls. We’ll spend the evening in Krania, soaking in the tranquility of the village.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Village stay in Krania
Daily Activities: Sightseeing, Walking
Travel: Motor coach
Later, we depart for Krania, where we’ll explore the village’s historic stone bridges and the picturesque Buluvaros Waterfalls. We’ll spend the evening in Krania, soaking in the tranquility of the village.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Village stay in Krania
Daily Activities: Sightseeing, Walking
Travel: Motor coach
DAY 3
This morning, we set out for the heart of Valia Calda National Park, traveling 10 miles on a dirt road to reach our starting point. Our hike follows a portion of the long distance E6 trail, which crosses Europe from Finland to Greece. We’ll hike along the stunning "Arkoudorema" stream, and experience the park’s pristine landscapes, shaded by towering black pine. We’ll even have a chance to take a refreshing dip in the natural pools and waterfalls along the way. Our guides will introduce us to the unique flora and fauna that make this park so special.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Refuge in Vovousa
Daily Activities: Hiking (~8.5 miles, ~5.5 hours, +885/-1,740 ft elevation gain/loss)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Refuge in Vovousa
Daily Activities: Hiking (~8.5 miles, ~5.5 hours, +885/-1,740 ft elevation gain/loss)
DAY 4
After breakfast, we take a short walk from the refuge to Vovousa’s central square before beginning our ascent of Mount Avgo. The trail leads us along a dirt road to Toskas Fountain, a historical spot that has been a gathering place for locals for centuries. It’s where people used to meet, chat, and fill up water, so it’s a great place to pause and appreciate the rich history of this area. From here, we follow a rugged path up the northern face of the mountain. Once we reach the summit, we’ll be treated to panoramic views—perfect for photos and a well-deserved break. Then, we’ll begin our descent through Ntiza, a lush area known for its incredible wildlife and gorgeous valley views. Finally, we’ll reach Perivoli, where we can relax in the main square and connect with the locals. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a rewarding day of hiking.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Guesthouse in Perivoli
Daily Activities: Hiking (~10 miles, ~7.5 hours, +4,003/-2920 ft elevation gain/loss)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Guesthouse in Perivoli
Daily Activities: Hiking (~10 miles, ~7.5 hours, +4,003/-2920 ft elevation gain/loss)
DAY 5
Today, we journey from Perivoli to the historic Vlach village of Avdella, which is the birthplace of Greece’s first filmmakers, the Manakia brothers. After resting under the shade of a large plane tree in the village square, we’ll follow a trail leading us up to the summit of Mount Vasilitsa. From there, we’ll descend to the GSMC Refuge on Mount Gomara, a cozy mountain retreat nestled in the heart of the Pindos range. This refuge, established by the Grevena Ski and Mountaineering Club, offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and is a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a hub for mountaineers in summer and skiers in winter, and it’s known for its warm hospitality and hearty meals. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a special BBQ dinner under the stars, complete with a telescope stargazing session hosted by a local club—if the weather is clear, you’ll have a chance to take in the breathtaking views of the night sky from this beautiful mountain location.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Grevena Ski and Mountaineering Club Refuge
Daily Activities: Hiking (~8 miles, ~6 hours, +3,215/-1,476 ft elevation gain/loss)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Grevena Ski and Mountaineering Club Refuge
Daily Activities: Hiking (~8 miles, ~6 hours, +3,215/-1,476 ft elevation gain/loss)
DAY 6
This morning, we set off on a scenic trail from Mount Gomara to Samarina, Greece’s highest village. Along the way, we may spot wild goats in their natural habitat. Upon arriving, we’ll explore Samarina’s historic churches, some dating back to 1713, and engage with locals to learn about their unique Vlach dialect and culture.
The highlight of the day is the Saint Mamas Festival, a rare and vibrant celebration that happens only once a year. This festival honors Saint Mamas, the patron saint of shepherds, and it’s a time when the village comes alive with music, dancing, and regional specialties. Many locals camp outdoors around the church, reviving ancient customs and creating a festive atmosphere that’s both joyful and communal. It’s a one-of-a-kind cultural experience that gives us a true taste of Samarina’s heritage and the spirit of its people. This afternoon is free to enjoy the festivities before we gather for dinner.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Guesthouse in Samarina
Daily Activities: Hiking (~6.8 miles, ~6.5 hours, +2,362/-1,050 ft elevation gain/loss)
The highlight of the day is the Saint Mamas Festival, a rare and vibrant celebration that happens only once a year. This festival honors Saint Mamas, the patron saint of shepherds, and it’s a time when the village comes alive with music, dancing, and regional specialties. Many locals camp outdoors around the church, reviving ancient customs and creating a festive atmosphere that’s both joyful and communal. It’s a one-of-a-kind cultural experience that gives us a true taste of Samarina’s heritage and the spirit of its people. This afternoon is free to enjoy the festivities before we gather for dinner.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Guesthouse in Samarina
Daily Activities: Hiking (~6.8 miles, ~6.5 hours, +2,362/-1,050 ft elevation gain/loss)
DAY 7
Today is our most challenging yet rewarding hike. We begin with a short transfer to Romiou before tackling the ascent to Mosia and then Ger-Smólikas, Greece’s second-highest peak. The panoramic views from the summit make the effort worthwhile.
The descent retraces our steps partway before veering toward Gorgoulios, marking the completion of the Vlachostrata and the end of our incredible journey through Northern Pindos. In the evening, we return to Thessaloniki for a well-deserved farewell dinner, celebrating our adventure together.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel in Thessaloniki
Daily Activities: Hiking (~12.5 miles, ~12 hours, +2,625/-3,445 ft elevation gain/loss)
The descent retraces our steps partway before veering toward Gorgoulios, marking the completion of the Vlachostrata and the end of our incredible journey through Northern Pindos. In the evening, we return to Thessaloniki for a well-deserved farewell dinner, celebrating our adventure together.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel in Thessaloniki
Daily Activities: Hiking (~12.5 miles, ~12 hours, +2,625/-3,445 ft elevation gain/loss)
DAY 8
After breakfast, we’ll transfer to Thessaloniki airport for our departures.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Travel: Private A/C motor coach
Included Meals: Breakfast
Travel: Private A/C motor coach
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Dates & Prices
| Departure Date | Availability | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
August 28 to September 04, 2026 |
Available |
$4995.00 |
Make It Your Adventure
Turn any trip into a private experience for your group, or let us design a custom itinerary just for you! Whether it’s friends, family, or colleagues, we’ll make your journey unforgettable.
Common Questions
Breakfasts are provided at your accommodations, typically buffets. Lunches will be either packed meals for on-the-go adventures or enjoyed at local restaurants. Dinners will take place in traditional Greek taverns, guesthouses, or outdoor settings, featuring hearty Greek dishes—vegetarian options included. A special BBQ dinner and stargazing experience are planned at the GSMC Refuge, and you'll also get to experience a traditional festival with local food and drinks in Samarina.
If we know well in advance, we can accommodate vegetarian, lactose-free, and gluten-sensitive diets. We cannot guarantee a completely gluten-free diet and we cannot provide a kitchen guaranteed to be free of cross-contamination. If you are vegan, we ask that you bring some additional protein bars; and if you are gluten-sensitive, please bring some gluten-free snacks. If you have severe allergies, Celiac disease and/or other significant dietary restrictions, please call the office before you register.
You only need to pay a single supplement if you want to guarantee you have your own room. Otherwise we'll pair you up with someone and then switch roommates every time we switch lodging.
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